West Virginia University has launched an online Master of Science in Sport and Performance Psychology through the College of Applied Human Sciences, expanding graduate pathways in a field where WVU already holds a national reputation for academic and professional excellence.
The fully online master’s degree provides training in performance enhancement, motivation, resilience, positive coaching, and athlete well-being. The program is designed for recent graduates and working professionals seeking applied preparation in mental performance settings, with asynchronous courses that support both full-time and part-time enrollment.
The program aligns with core coursework for the CMPC® credential and will offer an optional microcredential to support students in accruing mentored applied hours toward CMPC certification.
The new program will be housed in the School of Sport Sciences, which is also home to one of the most competitive and longstanding doctoral programs in sport, exercise, and performance psychology in the country. WVU graduates have served as faculty, researchers, and mental performance consultants across collegiate athletics, Olympic and professional sport, the military, performing arts, and academic settings.
“This new online master’s program in sport and performance psychology will give students meaningful opportunities to learn from outstanding faculty and experienced professionals who are actively working in the field,” said Dana Voelker, professor and Director of the School of Sport Sciences. “Graduates will gain preparation for pathways into mental performance consulting or apply psychological skills in a range of performance settings, such as coaching, business, military, healthcare, and the performing arts, where growth, well-being, and competitive excellence matter.”
“Building on WVU’s strong reputation in sport, exercise, and performance psychology, this online format makes graduate learning accessible for working professionals and students,” added Zenzi Huysmans, teaching assistant professor in the program. “Our goal is to prepare students to step into the privileged role of mental performance consulting with a strong sense of responsibility and compassion for the performers they work with.”
Applications are now being accepted for the Fall 2026 semester. Details and admissions information are available here.